IN U.S., PUBLIC'S LEANING TOWARD THERAPEUTIC USE

Across the border, voters have passed a direct challenge to federal drug
laws on marijuana.

In November, Initiative 692 passed easily in Washington state. Similar
medical-marijuana initiatives in Nevada and Alaska were also passed during
state elections.

Dr. Rob Killian, sponsor of I-692, said he expects the initiative to pave
the way for changes in federal drug policy.

"Washington state residents didn't want patients to be criminalized any
more," said Killian, a Seattle physician.

The Washington state initiative gained momentum in the fall as poll after
poll indicated residents there felt sick people should have the option of
smoking pot if it eased their pain or provided other therapeutic benefits.

The initiative does not legalize marijuana use in general, and recreational
use would still be illegal.

State lawmakers have said they intend to honour the vote and implement a law
that will allow patients to use marijuana.

In Canada, there is no indication that any similar legislative movement is
afoot.